Dr Richard Richmond

Cyclist, dog lover, opinionated

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🛑 Stop believing the "Biodegradable" lie.

We all want to be good dog parents and save the planet, right? So we buy the green box that says "Biodegradable" and toss it in the bin. Job done?

Wrong. 😬

Most "biodegradable" bags are just plastic that breaks down into... smaller plastic (microplastics). And even the good ones can’t break down in a landfill because there’s no oxygen. They just sit there mummified, releasing methane.

We did a deep dive into what actually happens to your dog's waste and found the only solution that truly works.

Read the full truth here: Are All Dog Poop Bags Biodegradable?

#sustainability #ecofriendly #dogsoftumblr #zerowaste #plasticfree #doglife #eco #greenwashing #barkridges

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🏆 The Best Front Clip Harness UK 2025: Why Barkridges® TruFit Comfort Wins on Fit, Comfort & Ease of Use

While big names like Ruffwear, Julius-K9 and PetSafe dominate the market, they often overlook two fundamental problems: difficult fitting (especially with anxious dogs) and chafing.

At Barkridges®, we engineered the TruFit Comfort Harness to eliminate these frustrations. It's not just a dual-clip system for effective no-pull training; it's a complete solution that makes the entire process easier, safer, and more comfortable than the competition.

Here is how the Barkridges® TruFit Comfort Harness compares to the industry leaders and why its design is the most complete solution for the UK market.

1. The Key Battleground: Putting the Harness On (The "Head-Hating" Problem)

The biggest drawback of leading front-clip harnesses is the stressful, over-the-head application process—a massive issue for nervous, elderly, or excitable dogs.

Feature Comparison: Ease of Application

Ruffwear Front Range: Requires the dog to step through or hold still while the harness is pulled over the head. This one-loop design often leads to struggle and panic for many dogs.

Rabbitgoo No-Pull: Shares the same fundamental flaw as Ruffwear, making daily application a battle, especially after a wet, muddy walk.

Julius-K9 (Training Options): While iconic, their training options often require complex adjustments or multi-step fitting, prioritizing function over user-friendliness.

Barkridges® TruFit Comfort: The Game Changer—features a four-buckle system that allows the harness to open and close quickly on all four connection points. This minimizes the time and stress of the "over-the-head" maneuver, making the TruFit Comfort the easiest front clip harness to put on and take off on the market.

2. Solving the Fit Problem: Chafing and Restriction

An ill-fitting front clip harness can restrict shoulder movement and cause chafing under the armpits. The TruFit Comfort Harness is engineered to provide a true, customised fit for all breeds.

Feature Comparison: Padded Comfort

Ruffwear: Excels with foam padding, but its fit is standard across breeds, often leading to fit compromises for unique body shapes.

PetSafe Easy Walk: Famous for its basic, thin strap design. While effective for pulling, the lack of padding may results in significant chafing and rubbing under the armpits during extended use.

Barkridges® TruFit Comfort: Provides a revolutionary two-size chest support system. We measure chest depth as well as girth, ensuring a truly bespoke, chafing-free fit that protects the shoulders and armpits of all dog shapes.

Feature Comparison: Weight & Breathability

Ruffwear: Can feel robust and heavy due to its substantial padding, which can be warm on long walks.

Barkridges® TruFit Comfort: Uses lightweight, breathable mesh construction combined with robust nylon webbing, ensuring proper ventilation and preventing overheating during long hikes or hot UK summer days.

3. The UK Essential: All-Round Safety & Durability

For the harsh UK climate and changing seasons, features like durability and visibility are non-negotiable standards.

Feature Comparison: Materials and Longevity

Ruffwear: Durable Ripstop Nylon (Excellent).

Julius-K9: Known for heavy-duty, durable materials.

Barkridges® TruFit Comfort: Uses Marine- and Mountaineering-Grade Nylon Webbing. We choose high-density, abrasion-resistant webbing that is quick-drying and built for the mud, rain, and grit of the British environment.

Feature Comparison: Control and Visibility

Ruffwear: Offers a reliable front clip for no-pull and reflective trim for visibility.

Barkridges® TruFit Comfort: Features a Dual Clip Harness (front/back) PLUS All-Round 360° Reflective Strips integrated into the entire harness. This pairs perfectly with our Triple Handle Lead for instant, precise traffic control, ensuring maximum safety from every angle.

🏆 Conclusion: The Dual-Clip Harness, Mastered.

When searching for the best front clip harness UK, remember that a great harness must solve more than one problem.

The Barkridges® TruFit Comfort Harness doesn't just match the competition on the effective no-pull feature; it surpasses them on the frustrating user experience. By offering an unprecedented easy-on/easy-off solution and an innovative focus on chafing-free fit, Barkridges provides the smartest, most comfortable, and most reliable dual-clip harness on the market.

Ready to say goodbye to the struggle and hello to pull-free walks?

Shop the TruFit Comfort Harness Today

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How dog friendly London really is?

London is a city that is often associated with its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and rich history. But it's also a city that has a lot to offer for our furry friends. From spacious parks to dog-friendly restaurants, London has become a hub for dog lovers. In this article, we'll explore just how dog-friendly London really is.

Parks

One of the most dog-friendly aspects of London is the abundance of parks. With over 3,000 parks and open spaces, there's no shortage of greenery for you and your pooch to explore. Hyde Park, for example, is one of the largest and most famous parks in London. With 350 acres of space, it's perfect for a long walk or run with your furry friend. Other popular dog-friendly parks include Battersea Park, Victoria Park, and Hampstead Heath.

Dog-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

London has also become a hub for dog-friendly cafes and restaurants. Many establishments in the city now allow dogs inside or have designated outdoor seating areas for dogs and their owners. The Good Life Eatery, for example, is a popular brunch spot in Marylebone that welcomes dogs both inside and outside. The cafe also offers dog-friendly treats and water bowls for your furry friend. Other popular dog-friendly cafes and restaurants include The Breakfast Club, BrewDog, and The Narrowboat.

Pet Shops

London is also home to a variety of pet shops that cater to all your dog's needs. From grooming products to healthy treats, these shops offer a range of options for your furry friend. One of the most popular pet shops in London is Pets at Home, which has several locations across the city. Other popular pet shops include Lily's Kitchen and Chelsea Dogs.

Dog-Friendly Accommodation

If you're planning to visit London with your dog, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options available. Many hotels and Airbnb properties in the city allow dogs, although it's always a good idea to check in advance. The Egerton House Hotel in Knightsbridge, for example, offers dog beds, bowls, and treats for your furry friend. Other popular dog-friendly hotels in London include The Bermondsey Square Hotel, The Milestone Hotel and Residences, and The Rosewood London.

Dog-Friendly Events

Finally, London is home to a range of dog-friendly events throughout the year. From charity dog walks to dog shows, there's always something going on for our furry friends. The All About Dogs Show, for example, is a popular event that takes place every year in London. The event features dog agility shows, breed-specific demonstrations, and a range of stalls selling dog-related products.

Click here for a specific list of dog-friendly places in London.

In conclusion, London is a city that has a lot to offer for our furry friends. With an abundance of parks, dog-friendly cafes and restaurants, pet shops, accommodation options, and events, there's no shortage of things to do with your dog in London. So, next time you're in the city, don't forget to bring your furry friend along for the ride!

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Why Shanghai is the Best Place to Visit: A Guide to China's Most Exciting City

Shanghai is a city that needs no introduction. As one of the largest and most vibrant cities in China, Shanghai is known for its incredible energy, stunning architecture, and bustling streets. But what makes Shanghai the best place to visit? Here are just a few reasons why Shanghai should be at the top of your travel list.

1. A Blend of East and West

Shanghai is a city that has been shaped by both Chinese and Western influences. The city's colonial past is reflected in its stunning architecture, which includes grand buildings like the Bund and the French Concession. At the same time, Shanghai is a thoroughly modern city with a cutting-edge skyline and a thriving art and fashion scene. This unique blend of cultures and styles makes Shanghai a fascinating place to visit.

2. Foodie Paradise

Food is a big part of life in Shanghai, and the city is a foodie paradise with a seemingly endless array of restaurants, street vendors, and markets to explore. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Chinese fare like dumplings and noodle dishes or international cuisine like Italian or Japanese, Shanghai has something to satisfy every palate.

3. World-Class Attractions

Shanghai is home to some of the most iconic attractions in China, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Yu Garden. Visitors can also explore the city's world-class museums, such as the Shanghai Museum and the Power Station of Art. The city's nightlife scene is also legendary, with everything from trendy rooftop bars to underground clubs.

4. Shopping Haven

For those who love to shop, Shanghai is a true haven. The city is home to some of the world's largest shopping malls, such as the Super Brand Mall and the IFC Mall. But it's not just the malls that offer great shopping opportunities - the city's street markets and boutiques are also full of treasures just waiting to be discovered.

5. Gateway to China

Finally, Shanghai is the perfect gateway to explore the rest of China. The city is well-connected to other major cities like Beijing and Xi'an, as well as popular tourist destinations like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors. Whether you're planning to stay in Shanghai or explore further afield, the city is the perfect starting point for your Chinese adventure.

In conclusion, Shanghai is a city that truly has it all - from fascinating history and culture to incredible food and nightlife. Whether you're a first-time visitor to China or a seasoned traveler, Shanghai is a destination that should be at the top of your travel list. If you need help planning your trip, check out this amazing travel guide to Shanghai on TwoStomachs.com. 

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Top 5 family friendly resorts in Maldives

Photo by Shifaaz shamoon on Unsplash

The Maldives is a tropical paradise that attracts families from around the world looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation. With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and endless opportunities for water activities, it's no surprise that the Maldives is a popular destination for families. Here are the top 5 resorts for families in the Maldives.

Soneva Fushi is a luxury resort located on a private island in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The resort is known for its sustainable practices and commitment to the environment, making it a great option for families who want to enjoy a luxurious vacation while also being mindful of their impact on the planet. The resort offers a wide range of activities for families, including snorkeling, diving, and a range of water sports. There are also plenty of on-land activities, including yoga, cooking classes, and outdoor cinema nights.

Amari Havodda is a luxury resort located on a private island in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The resort features a range of family-friendly activities, including a kids' club, a teen center, and a family pool. There are also plenty of activities for parents to enjoy, including a spa, snorkeling, and diving. The resort also offers a range of dining options, including a beachfront bar and grill, a restaurant specializing in Thai cuisine, and a café.

Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa is located on a private island in the Addu Atoll. The resort offers a range of activities for families, including snorkeling, diving, and a kids' club. The resort also features a range of dining options, including a restaurant specializing in Asian cuisine and a beachfront bar. The resort also offers a spa, fitness center, and tennis courts.

Six Senses Laamu is a luxury resort located on a private island in the Laamu Atoll. The resort offers a range of activities for families, including snorkeling, diving, and a kids' club. There are also plenty of on-land activities, including yoga, meditation, and outdoor cinema nights. The resort also features a range of dining options, including a restaurant specializing in organic and sustainably-sourced cuisine.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is a luxurious family-friendly resort located on a private island in the Baa Atoll. The resort features a range of family-friendly activities, including a kids' club, a teen center, and a family pool. There are also plenty of activities for parents to enjoy, including a spa, snorkeling, and diving. The resort also offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant specializing in fresh, locally-sourced seafood.

In conclusion, the Maldives is a wonderful destination for families looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation. With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a range of family-friendly activities, there are plenty of options to choose from. These top 5 resorts for families in the Maldives offer a range of activities and amenities that will make your family vacation an unforgettable experience.

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Why is Barkridges dog harness the best dog harness?

I have been using the Barkridges triple buckle dog harness on my furry friend for the past few months, and I must say, I was impressed with its quality, functionality, and convenience. The harness is made of sturdy and durable materials that can withstand regular use, and the adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit for my dog, providing a secure and comfortable feel.

However, the standout feature of this no pull dog harness, in my opinion, is the neck buckle. Unlike some other harnesses that require you to slip the harness over your dog's head, the Barkridges harness can be easily buckled and unbuckled around your dog's neck, which makes it so much easier to put on and take off. This feature is particularly useful if your dog is not comfortable having something pulled over its head or if you're in a hurry to get out the door.

The harness is also adjustable, allowing you to achieve a snug and comfortable fit around your dog's neck and body. This added level of adjustability makes it easy to get a secure and comfortable fit for your dog, reducing any potential discomfort while walking.

Another feature that I love about the Barkridges dog harness is its padded chest and belly straps. This feature ensures that the pressure from the leash is distributed evenly across my dog's body, avoiding any discomfort or strain. The front D-ring leash attachment point helps to reduce pulling, giving me more control while walking my dog. The reflective stitching is also a great safety feature, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.

Overall, I think the Barkridges dog harness is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a reliable, comfortable, and convenient way to walk their dogs. Its sturdy construction, adjustable straps, padded chest and belly straps, reflective stitching, and neck buckle make it a must-have for any dog owner.

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Bicycle disk brakes vs. traditional rim brakes

When it comes to bicycle brakes, there are two main types: disk brakes and traditional rim brakes. While both are effective at stopping your bike, they have some significant differences that may make one option more appealing than the other for your particular needs.

Let's start with the basics. Traditional rim brakes, also known as "normal brakes," use rubber pads to press against the rims of the wheels, which then slows the bike down. Disk brakes, on the other hand, use a rotor and caliper system that is attached to the wheel hub to stop the bike.

One major difference between the two types of brakes is the amount of stopping power they provide. Disk brakes are generally considered to be more powerful than rim brakes, which means they can stop your bike more quickly and with less effort on your part. This is especially important if you ride in wet or muddy conditions, as rim brakes can be less effective in these situations.

Another key difference between the two types of brakes is their maintenance requirements. Rim brakes can be prone to wear and tear on the rims themselves, which can lead to decreased stopping power over time. In addition, rim brakes require regular adjustments to ensure that the brake pads are hitting the rim evenly and at the right angle. Disk brakes, on the other hand, require less maintenance overall, as they are less susceptible to wear and can be adjusted more easily.

One potential downside of disk brakes is that they can be heavier and more expensive than rim brakes. This is because they require additional components, such as the rotor and caliper, and may require special tools or expertise to install and maintain.

So which type of brake is right for you? Ultimately, it depends on your riding style and preferences. If you ride in wet or muddy conditions, or if you need maximum stopping power for downhill or mountain biking, disk brakes may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a simpler, more lightweight option that requires less maintenance, rim brakes may be a better choice.

In conclusion, disk brakes and rim brakes each have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Regardless of which type of brake you choose, be sure to keep them properly maintained and adjusted to ensure maximum safety and performance on the road or trail.

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Considerations for choosing the best dog harness for your furry one

Are you a dog owner searching for the best dog harness for your furry friend? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, by considering factors such as sizing, type, and personality of your dog, as well as their energy level and your own comfort while walking them, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect harness.

Types of Dog Harnesses:

No-pull harnesses: These are a popular choice for larger dogs or dogs that tend to pull on their leash. By attaching the leash at the front of the harness, it gives you more control over your dog's direction and prevents choking or discomfort around the neck.

Rear-attached harnesses: These traditional harnesses often have a chest plate for added comfort. However, they can bring out the sled-pulling instinct in some dogs, which may lead to a loss of control on walks.

Factors to Consider:

Size and personality of your dog: Different breeds and personalities may require different types of harnesses. For example, a no-pull harness may not be effective for highly energetic or aggressive dogs.

Level of control needed: Consider the level of control you need over your dog on walks. A no-pull harness may provide more control than a rear-attached harness in some cases.

Comfort and safety: Choose a harness that is comfortable and safe for your dog. Look for features like reflective tape for visibility in low-light conditions.

Top Pick for Best Dog Harness:

Barkridges® Triple Buckle Premium Harness: This harness is made from high-quality materials and features a triple buckle design for added ease of putting on and taking off. It has reflective stitching for increased visibility, and the padded chest and back straps provide comfort for your dog. It is also adjustable for a customised fit.

Ultimately, the best dog harness for your furry friend depends on their unique needs and your personal preferences. By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the perfect harness to make your walks with your dog safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for both of you.

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Best Dog Harness for Your Dog

As any pet owner contemplating exactly what the best dog harness is, there are several things to take into consideration such as sizing, kind and also personality involving the actual dog. A person should also take into account the disposition your family dog exhibits when going for walks outside in the neighborhood, what kind of degree of energy they have, and just what ease and comfort you may have with walking your pet.

Larger sized dogs do not perform as excellently with a rear-attached harness because it brings forth the canines sled-pulling instinct and it could make it that much more difficult for you to control the dog. For this cause, several people who own dogs think about a no pull dog harness being the best dog harness to get. This offers you additional control over the dog because it leads from the front giving you a much better capacity to steer your dog in whichever path you desire to go, rather than the dog guiding you!

Yet another benefit from a no pull kind of harness is that it isn't about the neck so it will not cause any sort of choking. This improves comfort and ease and you will probably feel great walking your dog realizing that she or he is comfortable and safe. One particular big advantage is the fact that is westie dog harness really easy to use. A standard dog harness is required to be on through putting the pets feet into it, this no pull harness only needs to be lowered on across the dog's head and snapped into position.

Numerous no pull harnesses are manufactured with reflective tape so that you and your dog will certainly definitely be seen in the dark.

A number of owners think the best dog harness is a more conventional rear-attached harness. This type of harness typically has a chest plate that will boost comfort and ease. Nonetheless, at least one important draw back with this is the same as already mentioned. This kind of rear-attached harness may bring out the sled-pulling reaction within a dog and also, dependent upon the size of the dog, it may cause you to lose several elements of control when you are out going for walks with your dog.

When it comes to which harness is the best dog harness in your case basically bear in mind the dimensions and personality of your dog. Quite a few dogs are really powerful and/or aggressive that the no pull dog harness, in which the leash connects around the front torso of the dog, may not be sufficient in order to restrict them. In this case you might need to try a leash around the front connection and the rear.

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Barkridges® is about having fun with your beloved pet, your favourite companion. We want to help you to express your love for them. Whether it is a game of fetch in the open fields, a walk in the park or just a warm cuddle on the sofa, those are gorgeous moments in our lives. Quality moments spent with your pup are food for the soul.

reflective dog harness